Chelsea and Manchester United battle it out for another star – report

This one has been simmering for a while. They say that the cream always rises to the top in football and it appears to be the way with this youngster.

The Guardian is today reporting that Manchester United and Chelsea will do battle for the signature of Sheffield United’s young star Harry Maguire. The Guardian says:

Chelsea and United are both making eyes at Sheffield United’s Harry Maguire.

Having been linked to top clubs for some period it seems only a matter of time before a Chelsea or a Manchester United pick up the 21 year old centre back.

Despite his tender age he is already a real physical specimen standing, as he does, at 6ft 4in. Somehow he has already played 124 games for Sheffield United, scoring 9 goals in the process. Not only is he turning into a top defender with excellent feet and reading of the game, but he is also a genuine threat from set pieces.

Somewhat surprisingly, considering his club standing, he’s only played once for the England Under 21s – he had his debut in 2012.

While they both have a number of foreigners on their books, Chelsea and Manchester United have built their success over the years on top English players. Players like Rio Ferdinand and John Terry have formed the backbone of their great sides. It seems that, while a smattering of continental fairy dust is always important in this league, the English essence keeps the top teams winning. That’s why they are generally priced so highly.

With Chelsea and Manchester United in for this lad, expect a mammoth fee.